Sturbridge, Massachusetts

Worcester county. This is a very pleasant town, and is well watered by Quinebaug river. It lies 60 miles W.S.W. from Boston and 18 S.W. from Worcester. Incorporated, 1738. Population, 1830, 1,688; 1837, 2,004. The surface of the town is uneven and hilly, and the soil hard to subdue; but it has become productive by good management. There are some good fish ponds in the town, which serve to swell the Quinebaug. There are 6 cotton mills in Sturbridge and manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, chairs, cabinet ware, clothing, palm-leaf hats, trunks, harnesses, chairs, wagons, sleighs and pocket rifles; total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $182,415.